THE Police have identified 540 illegal entry routes across the country as of February, highlighting persistent challenges in securing the nation’s extensive land and maritime borders.
Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail said the routes comprised 316 land crossings and 224 maritime passages spanning 10 states, with the exception of Kuala Lumpur, Pulau Pinang, Terengganu and Pahang.
“Malaysia has extensive land and maritime borders with Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, Brunei, the Philippines, as well as international waters in the South China Sea and the Sulu Sea.
“These border areas not only serve as routes for legitimate trade and the movement of people, but are also exploited for cross-border criminal activities,” he said.
His speech was delivered on his behalf by Bukit Aman Special Branch E3A deputy director SAC Shaidatul Akmar Mohd Noor during a national security review session held alongside a Ramadan iftar event with Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.
Mohd Khalid said safeguarding Malaysia’s borders remained a complex task, but the Royal Malaysia Police had adopted a comprehensive, integrated and phased border security strategy aligned with national security priorities and the evolving regional geopolitical landscape.
He said the approach emphasised early prevention, strict enforcement, regional cooperation and sustainable security management to ensure the country’s borders remain secure.
“To address the issue of illegal routes, the Royal Malaysia Police have intensified land, river and maritime patrols in an integrated manner with other security agencies, while strengthening enforcement cooperation and information-sharing with foreign enforcement bodies,” he said.
He added that the police, together with other security agencies, continue to intensify monitoring in border areas and at key tourist locations to safeguard the wellbeing of visitors.
Mohd Khalid also stressed that Malaysia has strengthened its security framework through the deployment of advanced surveillance technology, enhanced intelligence sharing and closer inter-agency cooperation, supported by international partnerships to respond effectively to emerging threats.
“These proactive efforts ensure that Malaysia remains a safe and welcoming destination for visitors,” he said.. - March 13, 2026
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